🏡 Buying a Home in the Okanagan? Here’s Your Ultimate Guide! 🍷🌞
Hey future homeowner! 🎉 Thinking of planting roots in the stunning Okanagan? Whether it’s the lakeside charm, vineyard views, or just that dreamy lifestyle that drew you in — you’re in for a ride. 🚗💨 But don’t stress — I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to buy your first (or next!) home with confidence. Let’s break it down!
👋 Meet Your Guide — Mark Drelich
From 🎙️ radio waves to 🏠 real estate, I’ve spent a decade entertaining audiences and exploring the world — and now, I’m using that energy and experience to help YOU find your perfect home.
Why me?
- ✅ Quick, responsive communication
- ✅ Killer market knowledge
- ✅ A solid network of buyers, sellers, and mortgage experts
- ✅ Oh, and I was on Big Brother Canada (Season 7!) 😉
💸 Your Costs — Let’s Talk Budget
So, how much does it really cost to buy a home in the Okanagan? Here’s a snapshot:
- 🔐 Deposit: ~5%+ of the purchase price
- 🏦 Bank Appraisal (if needed): $0 – $500
- 🧾 Legal Fees: $700+
- 🧰 Home Inspection: $550+
- 🧾 Tax Adjustment: Varies
- 🛡️ Title Insurance: ~$250 (if no survey)
- 🧾 Property Transfer Tax: ~$2,000+ (if not exempt)
- 💵 GST: 5% (on new homes only)
Pro Tip: I’ve got top-tier mortgage broker contacts who can calculate what you qualify for and what you’ll need — just ask! 🙋♂️
📋 Homebuyer Checklist
Let’s get prepped! ✅ Consider the following:
- Who’s your mortgage broker?
- Got your pre-approval letter?
- Are you buying solo or with someone else?
- Renting? On a lease?
- Willing to do renos or want move-in ready?
- How much do you have saved?
✨ Pro planning = less stress later.
🧠 Know Your Must-Haves & Nice-to-Haves
Let’s dream a little — what does your ideal home look like?
🏆 Must-Haves:
💭 Wish List:
- A pool?
- Lake view?
- Big backyard?
- Home office?
- Wine cellar? 🍷
- Nearby schools?
- Garage for your toys? 🚗🚲
🏁 The Buying Process (Step by Step)
Here’s how we make homeownership happen:
- ✅ Get prequalified + gather your bank docs
- 🏡 Start viewing homes
- 📝 Make an offer
- 🔍 Inspection + financing period
- 💰 Deposit time
- 📑 Legal review + documents
- 🖊️ Sign with the bank
- 🖊️ Sign with the lawyer
- 🎉 Completion Day = it’s officially YOURS
- 🏠 Move in, decorate, LIVE
- 🎊 Invite me to the housewarming (optional but recommended 😉)
💼 How Much Do I Pay You?
Here’s the best part:
Buyers don’t pay my commission. The seller does! 🙌
Unless it’s a super rare situation (which we’ll discuss upfront), you won’t owe me a dime.
💬 Final Thoughts
I may not be a lawyer, contractor, or banker — but I’m your go-to guide through the twists and turns of buying in this competitive market. 🧭 I’ll help you avoid overpaying, keep your paperwork flawless, and make sure it all goes smoothly.
Let’s make your Okanagan home dreams come true. 🌅
Categorised in: Buying
